Washington Psychology Doctorate Programs: PsyD & PhD 2025
Last Updated: January 2025
Washington state offers comprehensive doctoral programs in psychology for aspiring clinical psychologists, counseling psychologists, and school psychologists. With six major universities providing APA-accredited programs, prospective students have diverse options for specialization and career preparation.
Table of Contents
- Quick Facts About Washington Psychology Programs
- Washington PsyD Programs
- Washington PhD Programs
- PsyD vs PhD Comparison
- How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Washington
- Washington Psychology Salary Outlook
- Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts About Washington Psychology Programs
Washington state provides exceptional opportunities for psychology doctoral education, with programs consistently ranking among the nation’s top institutions. The state’s commitment to mental health services and education creates a robust environment for psychology training and practice.
| Key Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Universities with Psychology Programs | 13 schools offering graduate psychology degrees |
| APA-Accredited Doctoral Programs | 6 universities with accredited programs |
| Tuition Range | $8,353 (Eastern Washington University) to $54,285 (Seattle University) |
| Top-Ranked Institutions | University of Washington, Washington State University, Seattle Pacific University, Gonzaga University |
Several Washington universities have achieved national recognition for their psychology programs. The University of Washington, Washington State University, Seattle Pacific University, and Northwest University all appear on US News and World Report’s 2025 list of best graduate psychology schools. Additionally, Gonzaga University, Seattle University, University of Washington, and Washington State University earned spots on Princeton Review’s 2025 list of best colleges nationwide.
Washington PsyD Programs
The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree emphasizes clinical practice and hands-on training, making it the preferred choice for students planning to work directly with patients. Washington offers three distinct PsyD programs, each with unique specializations and training approaches.
Antioch University Seattle – PsyD Clinical Psychology
Antioch University Seattle’s PsyD program provides comprehensive doctoral education in clinical psychology, preparing graduates for professional practice in health service psychology. The program emphasizes social justice, multicultural competency, and collaborative learning in small cohorts.
- Institution Type: Private
- Location: Seattle
- Annual Tuition: $49,550
- Duration: 5 years full-time
- Degree: PsyD in Clinical Psychology
- APA Accreditation: Yes
- Specializations: Social justice focus, multicultural competency
Northwest University – PsyD Counseling Psychology
Northwest University’s PsyD program in Counseling Psychology has held APA accreditation since 2018. This 121-semester-credit program accommodates working professionals with evening classes and includes innovative international cultural immersion experiences.
- Institution Type: Private, Christian
- Location: Kirkland
- Annual Tuition: $35,875
- Duration: 5 years post-bachelor’s
- Degree: PsyD in Counseling Psychology
- APA Accreditation: Yes (since 2018)
- Unique Features: International cultural immersion, evening classes
- Licensure Rate: 54% of graduates (2014-2024 cohorts)
Gonzaga University – PsyD School Psychology
Gonzaga University offers a specialized PsyD in School Psychology designed for both post-baccalaureate and post-certification students. This program prepares graduates for licensure as school psychologists with opportunities for research and practical application.
- Institution Type: Private, Catholic
- Location: Spokane
- Annual Tuition: $1,130 per credit
- Duration: 5 years (post-bachelor’s), 3 years (post-certification)
- Degree: PsyD in School Psychology
- APA Accreditation: Expected full accreditation 2026
- Program Tracks: Post-baccalaureate (109 credits), Post-certification (51 credits)
- Cohort Size: 10 students per track
Washington PhD Programs
PhD programs in psychology emphasize research training and academic preparation, making them ideal for students interested in advancing psychological science through research, university teaching, or leadership roles in clinical settings.
University of Washington – Multiple PhD Programs
The University of Washington operates Washington’s largest psychology department and offers multiple APA-accredited PhD programs. The university is renowned for faculty who are recognized pioneers in psychological research and practice.
- Institution Type: Public
- Location: Seattle
- Degrees Offered: PhD in Clinical Psychology, PhD in School Psychology
- APA Accreditation: Yes (both programs)
- Annual Tuition (Clinical): $17,394 in-state, $30,294 out-of-state
- Annual Tuition (School): $20,050-$35,553, depending on track
- Duration: 5 years full-time
- Special Recognition: Member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science
Washington State University – PhD Clinical Psychology
Washington State University’s Clinical Psychology PhD program follows the scientist-practitioner model, integrating research, theory, and clinical practice. Students receive comprehensive training in multiple specialty areas, supported by exceptional funding.
- Institution Type: Public
- Location: Pullman
- Degree: PhD in Clinical Psychology
- APA Accreditation: Yes
- Annual Tuition: $985 in/out-of-state after tuition remission
- Duration: 4-5 years
- Specializations: Adult psychopathology, health psychology, clinical child and adolescent psychology, neuropsychology
- Funding: All students receive assistantships
Seattle Pacific University – PhD Clinical Psychology
Seattle Pacific University’s Clinical Psychology PhD program provides training from a biopsychosocial perspective, examining the interplay of psychological, biological, and social factors in human behavior.
- Institution Type: Private, Christian
- Location: Seattle
- Degree: PhD in Clinical Psychology
- APA Accreditation: Yes
- Annual Tuition: $32,688 ($899 per credit hour)
- Duration: 5 years full-time
- Total Credits: 195 credit hours
- Approach: Biopsychosocial perspective with diversity focus
PsyD vs PhD Comparison
Understanding the differences between PsyD and PhD programs helps prospective students choose the path that aligns with their career goals and learning preferences.
| Program Feature | PsyD Programs | PhD Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Clinical practice and applied skills | Research and academic preparation |
| Typical Duration | 4-5 years | 5-7 years |
| Clinical Hours | Extensive practicum and internship hours | Moderate clinical training |
| Research Requirements | Applied research and clinical dissertation | Extensive original research and dissertation |
| Career Outcomes | Private practice, clinical settings, hospitals | Universities, research institutions, senior clinical roles |
| Funding Opportunities | Limited assistantships, primarily loans | Research and teaching assistantships common |
Both degree types meet licensing requirements for professional psychology practice in Washington state. The choice between PsyD and PhD depends on your career aspirations, learning style, and financial considerations. Students interested in detailed comparisons between PsyD and PhD programs can explore comprehensive analyses of these degree paths.
How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Washington
Obtaining licensure as a psychologist in Washington state requires completing specific educational, experiential, and examination requirements. The process typically takes 8-10 years from the start of undergraduate studies.
Educational Requirements
The foundation of psychological practice begins with comprehensive education at each degree level:
Step 1: Bachelor’s Degree (4 years)
Complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field from an accredited institution. This typically requires 120 credit hours and provides foundational knowledge in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, and social psychology.
Step 2: Master’s Degree (Optional, 1-2 years)
While not required, completing a master’s degree before applying to doctoral programs can strengthen your application and provide additional preparation. Some students complete this independently, while others earn it as part of their doctoral program.
Step 3: Doctoral Degree (4-7 years)
Earn either a PsyD or PhD in psychology from an APA-accredited program. Washington state requires graduation from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association or other organizations approved by the Washington Psychology Examining Board.
Supervised Experience Requirements
Washington state mandates extensive supervised experience totaling 3,900 hours over at least two years:
- Pre-doctoral practicum hours: Minimum 300 hours during doctoral program
- Pre-doctoral internship: 1,500 hours from APA-accredited internship
- Post-doctoral supervised experience: Remaining hours completed after graduation
All supervised experience must include direct patient contact and administrative duties related to clinical work. Supervision must be provided by licensed psychologists meeting state requirements.
Licensing Application Process
After completing educational and experience requirements, candidates must navigate Washington’s licensing process:
Application Submission:
Submit both online and paper components through the Washington State Department of Health. The application fee is $206, or $406 if submitted through the Psychology Licensure Universal System.
Required Documentation:
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Verification of supervised experience hours
- Professional references and character evaluations
- Background check and fingerprinting
Licensing Examinations
Washington requires passing scores on two examinations:
1. Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP):
This national multiple-choice examination costs $687.50 and requires a minimum score of 500. The exam covers eight content areas including biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases of behavior, and treatment/intervention.
2. Washington State Jurisprudence Examination:
A 25-question online examination focusing on Washington state laws and regulations governing psychology practice. This open-book exam requires a 90% passing score and covers ethical standards, professional regulations, and state-specific requirements.
Continuing Education and License Maintenance
Licensed psychologists in Washington are required to complete continuing education requirements for license renewal. This includes staying current with professional developments, adhering to ethical standards, and applying evidence-based practices in their areas of specialization.
Washington Psychology Salary Outlook
Psychology professionals in Washington state enjoy competitive compensation, with salaries varying by location, specialization, and experience level. The state’s commitment to mental health services, combined with its robust healthcare system, creates a strong demand for qualified psychologists.
Current Salary Data
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, clinical and counseling psychologists in Washington state earn competitive salaries across different regions:
| Region | Employment | Mean Annual Wage | Median Annual Wage | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue Metro | 590 | $132,620 | $117,790 | $141,290 | $165,820 |
| Western Washington Rural Areas | 40 | $119,120 | $118,600 | $122,100 | $135,230 |
The Seattle metropolitan area offers the highest compensation levels, reflecting the region’s strong economy and high cost of living. PsyD-prepared psychologists typically earn in the upper percentiles, with many achieving salaries above $141,000 annually.
Career Growth and Specialization Impact
Psychology professionals in Washington can enhance their earning potential through specialization and advanced training:
- Neuropsychology: Specialized assessment and treatment of brain-related conditions
- Forensic Psychology: Legal system consultation and evaluation services
- Health Psychology: Medical settings and chronic disease management
- Child and Adolescent Psychology: Specialized pediatric mental health services
For comprehensive salary information across different psychology specializations, visit our Washington Clinical Psychologist Salary Guide, which provides detailed breakdowns by specialty area and employment setting.
May 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics salary for Psychologists and Psychologists, all other. National labor market information and state labor market information also sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor. Information based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed August 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete a PsyD program in Washington?
Most PsyD programs in Washington require 4-5 years of full-time study. This includes coursework, practicum experiences, a full-time internship, and completion of a doctoral dissertation or capstone project.
Can I practice psychology in other states with a Washington degree?
Yes, degrees from APA-accredited programs in Washington are recognized nationwide. However, you must meet each state’s specific licensing requirements, which may include additional examinations or supervised experience hours.
What’s the difference between clinical and counseling psychology programs?
Clinical psychology programs typically focus on the assessment and treatment of severe mental illness, while counseling psychology emphasizes wellness and adjustment issues. Both prepare graduates for similar career paths and eligibility for licensing.
Are online psychology doctorate programs available in Washington?
While some universities offer hybrid or limited online components, most APA-accredited doctoral programs require substantial in-person attendance for practicum and clinical training experiences.
What funding options are available for psychology doctoral students?
PhD programs often provide research or teaching assistantships. PsyD programs typically offer fewer funded positions, making students more reliant on loans and scholarships. Some programs offer work-study positions or clinical assistantships.
How competitive are Washington psychology doctoral programs?
Admission is highly competitive, with most programs accepting 5-15% of applicants. Strong academic records, research experience, clinical exposure, and aligned career goals are essential for successful applications.
Students interested in exploring comprehensive program rankings and comparisons should review our APA-Accredited PsyD Program Rankings to understand how Washington programs compare nationally.
